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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFebruary 1, 2001 () '-' l.-) c) o o CITY of ANDOVER PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING - FEBRUARY 1,2001 MINUTES The Regular Bi-Monthly Meeting of the Andover Park and Recreation Commission was called to order by Chairman Jim Lindahl on Februmy 1,2001, 7:02 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota. Commissioners present: Madam Chair Valerie Holthus, Al Grabowski, Jim Lindahl, Dave Blackstad, Chris English, Paul Anderson and Dave O'Toole. Commissioners absent: There were none. . Also present: Parks Coordinator, Todd Haas; Kevin Starr, Public Works Supervisor RESIDENTS FORUM There was none. APPROVAL OF MINUTE Chairman Lindahl transferred the position of Chair over to Valerie Holthus. He also mentioned thanks to Tom Anderson and Jeff Kieffer for their 13 years of service. Madam Chair Holthus welcomed Commissioner Blackstad and Commissioner English to the Park and Recreation Commission as new members. Motion by Grabowski, seconded by Lindahl, to approve the Janumy 18,2001 regular Park and Recreation Commission meeting minutes as submitted. Motion carried on a 4-ayes, O-nays, 3- present (O'Toole, English, and Blackstad), and O-absent vote. PUBLIC WORKS UPDATE Kevin Starr presented the COlmnission with the quarterly update. He stated that most of the rinks are in tough shape at this time due to the recent freezing rain and wet snow. He explained the order of events that takes place when a snowfall takes place. He stated that maintenance of the trails has taken more time than anticipated, since there is so much snow and no where to put it. He mentioned that ifthere is anything the Commission wants done it is important a work order be sublnitted to assw'e that it doesn't get overlooked. He also mentioned that it's important the COlmnissioners contact to him if there is anything he needs to know. () o :-) , -' Regular Andover Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - February 1, 2001 Page 2 Commissioner Grabowski questioned the process of submitting a work order. Mr. Starr explained that it might be easiest for Mr. Haas to bring forms to the meeting that way they can be filled out immediately. Commissioner Grabowski suggested Mr. Haas bring a few work orders to every meeting. Mr. Haas explained that a work order has been submitted to public works on the request to pull out the backstop and benches at Red Oaks East Park Commissioner Grabowski suggested including the list of open work orders on the issues list. Commissioner Blackstad agreed with the system. Mr. Starr requested direction on the playground since it will take 6-8 weeks for delivery. Madam Chair Holthus questioned if the deer are a problem at Kelsey -Round Lake Park. Mr. Starr stated that there are a number of deer, however they aren't posing any problems. , '\ '-) Madam Chair Holthus questioned how the new trees are doing that were planted last fall and whether or not the City can get replacements if any die. Mr. Starr explained that the City did very well on the S3,000 dollars the Park and Recreation Commission put towards new trees. He also mentioned that the trees are under warranty for one year. Commissioner English questioned what the City has been using for the fall zones on the playgrounds. Mr. Starr explained that the City uses sand, however currently more sand is needed to get them up to 12 inches. Commissioner English questioned if it would be possible to adapt 12 inches as the new policy or standard. Mr. Starr explained that for any new or rebuilt parks they would be at 12 inches. Commissioner English questioned ifMr. Starr could provide the open work orders on a quarterly basis. Mr. Starr explained that if something specific were to come up it is usually in his quarterly report that he provides to the Commission. Madam Chair Holthus commented that the ice rink at Hawkridge is very nice. Mr. Starr agreed, however mentioned it does need more lighting. DISCUSS REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL FIELDS & EQUIPMENTINORTH METRO SOCCER ASSOCIATION Steve Freitag, Field Coordinator for the North Metro Soccer Association, explained that they would like to request additional equipment for the 2001 spring/summer season. He stated that ~ -)' they are trying to make changes in their program for ages 10 and under and age 12 and under '- where the practices are conducted on small fields the size of an under 6 field. He requested 4 sets of 6 foot by 12-foot size, which would be like the ones on the water tower fields. He (J C) C) (-) \..../ Regular Andover Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - FebruaJ)' 1,2001 Page 3 () mentioned that they intend to use fields for rec soccer that haven't seen much use in recent years. He expressed interest in Hawkridge, Forest Meadows/Tamarack, Birch Ridge, Prairie KnoIl, and Fox Meadows along with the fields used last year. He also mentioned they would like to see Hawkridge irrigated someday if possible, and additional lighting on the fields near the water tower at City HaIl. Commissioner O'Toole questioned ifhe was aware of the irrigation project at Hidden Creek North Park. Mr. Freitag stated that he is aware of the project. Madam Chair Holthus stated that the state will be evaluating the application of a grant which includes the possibility of a weIl at Hawkridge Park, which is the first step towards irrigation. Mr. Haas stated that if the grant is approved, things will be able to move forward. Mr. Freitag mentioned they would be willing to help with fundraising ifnecessary. Commissioner English questioned what Mr. Freitag on what would be his priorities. Mr. Freitag stated that his number one priority would be to get Hawkridge Park in"igated. Commissioner B1ackstad questioned what Timber Trails Park wasn't listed. COlmnissioner Lindahl mentioned that its important to know the reasons as to why a field is not listed so improvements can be made. Commissioner Lindahl questioned if Fox Meadows Park is an option since it's a full size field that's rarely used. Mr. Freitag explained that they are willing to use as many fields as possible. COlmnissioner Lindahl mentioned that the coaches that are out using the fields regularly need to let the City know what they like and don't like about the fields. Mr. Freitag explained that he has started the adopt-a-field program, where people volunteer at registration time to do one area or field. He stated that this way there will be better communication as to how things are working in terms of equipment, vandalism, etc. Commissioner Grabowski questioned if the City received a report from the associations regarding the field usage. Mr. Freitag stated that he hasn't filled out a report, however plans to in the near future. Commissioner Grabowski suggested each association hand in a report as to what they would like in tenns ofthe number of nights, etc. Mr. Freitag explained that whenever they did use the fields it was usually four nights a week from 6-9 p.m. COlmnissioner English questioned when they would practice. Mr. Freitag explained that they would alternate every other night between practice and a game. o o /-\ '''--) Regular Andover Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - FebruaI)' 1,2001 Page 4 Commissioner O'Toole questioned if it would be possible for him to submit an inventory list of what they need when they come back before the Commission in March. Commissioner English questioned if there are different types of goals available and if so what type they use. Mr. Freitag explained that the major thing is portability, therefore they are more interested in the smaller goals for the small fields and the medium size goals for the full size fields. Madam Chair Holthvs questioned ifthe number of kids participating has increased from last year. Mr. Freitag explained that they are predicting there will be an increase, however registration doesn't close until March 3. Chainnan Holthus questioned the number of parks that have been adopted. Mr. Freitag stated that about 8-10 parks have been adopted. Madam Chair Holthus suggested Mr. Freitag continue to work with Mr. Haas and Mr. Starr. REVIEW CITY HALL PARK COMPLEX#] NEW PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT ~J Mr. Haas explained that the Commission is being asked to review the proposed replacement playground equipment to be considered for the City Hall Park Complex # 1. He mentioned that the only thing that will be selvage from the old structure is the stainless steel spiral slide. Madam Chair Holthus questioned ifthere would be any monkey bars since kids tend to love them. Mr. Starr mentioned that on this structure there are no monkey bars, however there are many options available. Commissioner Grabowski suggested the City get at least two quotes. Mr. Haas explained that they should be able to get three quotes. Commissioner Lindahl suggested the Commission identify what they want and they go with something similar. Mr. Haas explained that the layout presented before the Commission was produced by Game Time, therefore the City would need to request pennission to show it to other vendors. Commissioner Lindahl suggested the Commission identify the pieces and then bid it out, while laying out the guidelines. Mr. Haas mentioned that if that is what the Commission is requesting it will require additional help. r -\ \_J Mr. Starr stated that if the COlmnission decides to go with another vendor the City will probably get half the equipment for the same amount of money. o o /' " \ ' ,.-I Regular Andover Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - February 1,2001 Page 5 Commissioner English suggested the Commission it look at the project on schematic layouts since over time it will take a large sum of money to get the parks up to speed. He suggested the Commission come up with 3-5 designs and price it out individually. Mr. Starr stated that the City has never done it this way, however agreed it would be beneficial. COlmnissioner Anderson questioned if the swing sets would be staying. Madam Chair Holthus mentioned she would like to see monkey bars in place of one of the bridges. Commissioner Blackstad suggested taking out the cloverclimber and putting in the monkey bars. Commissioner English mentioned that one issue is standardization and how it would affect the maintenance. He suggested the City have a one time unlimited contract over a 5 year period. Mr. Haas mentioned that it may be possible to buy some of the equipment off the state contract. Madam Chair Holthus suggested staff do research on a contract for replacement parts. She also suggested staff talk with Game Time regarding the possibility of including monkey bars. , " '-.) Mr. Haas stated that the playground equipment at Pine Hills was bought on sale through Game Time at a good price. He mentioned that he would check and see if Game Time has any equipment on sale. Commissioner Lindahl stated that if the idea is to have it installed by spring then the order needs to be placed quickly. DISCUSS 5 YEAR PARK CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN, CONT. Mr. Haas explained that the COlmnission is being asked to continue the discussion regarding the proposed 5-Year Park Capital Improvement Plan for the use of the park dedication funds. He suggested the 5-12 year old playground equipment listed under Wild Iris Park for 2002 be removed and included in the 5-year replacement plan. . Commissioner Blackstad questioned the reason park dedication funds is included in the title of the page. He mentioned that he always though park dedication funds were for paying for a park in which the money came from or for enhancements/improvements to regional parks. Mr. Haas explained that the reason the title includes park dedication funds is because it's for the budget. r- '.... '__J COlmnissioner Anderson mentioned concerns since it's likely the park dedication funds will run out at some point. He stated that this issue needs to be discussed with the City Council. ,- , C) Regular Andover Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - Febrnary I, 2001 Page 6 o l_ . I Mr. Starr handed out a report on the 2001 Budget: Park Maintenance. He mentioned that they are aware of the problem. Commissioner Blackstad stated that he recently has had discussions with the City Finance Director regarding the possibility of a sinking fund. He explained that each year the City would put aside $100,000 instead of $40,000, with $50,000 being put in the fund. He mentioned that other cities such as Anoka already have a plan similar to this in place. Commissioner Anderson stated concerns since the City isn't putting parks in the neighborhoods where the money comes from. He mentioned that the playground equipment for Hawkridge and Wild Iris should come from the Park Capital Improvement Replacement Plan. Mr. Starr stated that other items that need replacing and maintenance are the lighting, parking lots, etc. Commissioner Lindahl agreed to take park dedication funds out of the title since the plan is actually a development fund. Madam Chair Holthus requested Mr. Haas remove park dedication funds from the title. , , , - ; COlmnissioner English stated that the COlmnission feels that the park dedication fund will not be there forever and therefore it isn't pennanen1. Mr. Haas stated that the City Council is aware of the problem. COlmnissioner English questioned if the COlmnission is gearing more towards regional parks than neighborhood parks. Commissioner Lindahl explained that the City is changing their thinking since the mobilization is much greater now then years ago. COlmnissioner Blackstad questioned what the City's actual cost is in general maintenance over one years time. Mr. Star explained that the general maintenance for the parks has gone up 2% each year. Commissioner English questioned if it would be possible for him to see how the "general maintenance fund is broken down. Mr. Starr stated that that wouldn't be a problem. DISCUSS 5 YEAR PARK CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT REPLACEMENT PLAN, CONT. Mr. Haas explained that the Commission is being asked to discuss the 5- Year Capital Improvement Replacement Plan. He stated that Frank Stone is going to try and increase the budget for 2002 to $80,000. ( \. j Commissioner English questioned if the City has ever used a maintenance software. Mr. Starr stated that no they haven't. Commissioner English explained how the software would help. C_) () Regular Andover Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - Februmy 1,2001 Page 7 C) Commissioner Grabowski stated that Wild Iris Park should be a priority for 200 I because of its use and location. Madam Chair Holthus suggested Hawkridge Park be on the list. Commissioner Lindahl stated that Prairie Knoll Park could also be a priority depending on the outcome of the school. Commissioner Blackstad suggested Strootman Park. Mr. Starr mentioned that another one to look at is Rose Park. Madam Chair Holthus stated that the playground equipment at Wild Iris is extremely old. Mr. Haas stated that he would get together with Mr. Starr and make the changes prior to the next meeting. DISCUSS 5 YEAR TRAIL IMPROVEMENT PLAN C) Mr. Haas explained that the Commission is being asked to discuss a 5- Year Trail Improvement Plan. Commissioner Grabowski questioned if the trail by the school would be on the north or south side of the road. Mr. Haas stated that the trail would be on the north side because of the location of the school. Madam Chair Holthus questioned where the trail near Chesterton Commons would begin and end. Mr. Haas explained. Commissioner Grabowski questioned the reason the trail isn't extended all the way to the intersection. Mr. Haas stated that extending it shouldn't be a problem. Commissioner Grabowski explained that it would be better since that way they wouldn't have to start and stop all the time. Mr. Haas agreed and stated that he would add to the Council's agenda for their next meeting. Mr. Haas pointed out the location of all the trails listed in the staff report. Commissioner Grabowski questioned the reason for putting two trails so close to each other on Bunker Lake Blvd. Mr. Haas stated that the reason is because of the crossing anns for the /-', railroad tracks. He mentioned that he would set up a meeting with the Director of Parks to ',_) discuss the trails further, or even possibly come to a park board meeting. C) o (J Regular Andover Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - February 1, 2001 Page 8 Commissioner Grabowski questioned the trail on the west side of the road next to the school (#2 on the potential list). He questioned why the City doesn't wait until the revision is made on Crosstown Blvd. to see what happens to the Martinson property. Mr. Haas explained that he spoke with the county and found out they aren't planning on doing any reconstruction in the near future. Commissioner English questioned the comment made by Councilmember Trude. Mr. Haas explained that the City is looking at a trail along Verdin and connecting the trail from 168th Lane to I 74th Lane. In addition we are asking them to pay for putting in the trail on their property. Commissioner Grabowski questioned how much school property would be involved. Mr. Haas explained. Commissioner Grabowski stated that he doesn't see why the City can't go north from I 68th Lane to I 74th Lane. ;J Mr. Haas stated that it's probably wise if the City makes it a priority for this year. The only problem would be with the construction on 161 st since at this time it's unsure if we could get enough trail funds for the construction. COlmnissioner Grabowski questioned what would be the estimated cost. Mr. Haas stated that he is unsure at this time, but would prepare something for the next meeting. Commissioner English mentioned that the speed limit is 55 mph and there isn't much ofa shoulder either. COlmnissioner Grabowski suggested the trail be put in before the school is up and running. UPDATE OF TULIP STREET PARK LEASE AGREEMENT, CONT. Mr. Haas explained that included in the packet is a letter dated January 16, 200 I from the City Attorney. He mentioned that based on the letter that leasing the propertyJor private purposes wouldn't be appropriate due to the restriction that has been placed on the property, which is designated as park. He stated that the way he understands it if the COlmnission decided to get rid of the park designation then it could be done. COlmnissioner Blackstad along with the rest of the COlmnission recOlmnended removing the park designation. /-, Mr. Haas stated that he would add the item to the Council's agenda for the next meeting. '-) (J (=) (J o 0 Regular Andover Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - FebruaI)' 1,2001 Page 9 REVIEW CRITERIA FOR SALE OF PARK PROPERTY Mr. Haas presented the Commission with a list of criteria to be used when wanting to consider the sale of park propel1y. COlmnissioner Lindahl suggested adding, "How the park was acquired". Mr. Haas agreed. Cormnissioner Grabowski suggested the last point be revised to state, "Is there a need for a park or would it be a practical location for a park. Commissioner Lindahl explained that typically the Commission is looking at land that has been there for years and nothing has been done to it and it has no purpose. REVIEW OF ANDOVER LAKE TRAIL PLAN Mr. Haas presented the Cormnission with a sketch of the trail and options for the location of a fishing pier. Commissioner Grabowski suggested it be placed closer to the middle of the lake, therefore it would be kept away from the resident's property. He mentioned the dock should go in somewhere near C.S.A.H.16. Mr. Haas stated that the item would be put on the agenda for the joint meeting with the City Council. DISCUSS ANOKA COUNTY LIBRARY TRAIL, PROJECT 00-17, CONT. Mr. Haas updated the COlmnission regarding the Anoka County Library Trail. He stated that construction should begin in June of this year. DISCUSS ITEMS TO BE ON JOINT MEETING WITH CITY COUNCIL Commissioner Grabowski suggested the items that were on the agenda at the last joint meeting with the Council be discussed first at this meeting. COlmnissioner Blackstad recommended that the issue regarding the park dedication requirements be number one on the list. Cormnissioner Anderson questioned ifit would be possible to receive a copy of the ordinance prior to the joint meeting. Cormnissioner Grabowski suggested providing a copy of the new and old ordinances at the next meeting. (-" \_) () Regular Andover Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - Februwy 1,2001 Page 10 C) Mr. Haas questioned if the Commission would like to see the trail fee requirements discussed next. Commissioner Grabowski stated that the only problem is that the Council tends to confuse the two. The Commission went on to number the items as they preferred. Commissioner Grabowski suggested Mr. Haas provide the Council with the agenda ahead of time along with infonning them if they need any additional infonnation prior to the meeting they should contact him. Mr. Haas agreed. REVIEW ISSUES LIST Mr. Haas reviewed the items on the issues list. COlmnissioner Blackstad stated that the site plans look great, however he was looking more for an aerial perception. Mr. Haas stated that that will also a layout of the park could be provided. Commissioner Anderson mentioned that they had another good meeting with the Skateboard Task Force. He stated that they have come to accept that the facility won't work at the City " .'\, Hall if it were to be installed in the hockey rink since the equipment can't be moved to protect '_/ the warranty requirements. Mr. Haas suggested possibly moving the ball field to make room. Commissioner Grabowski supported the idea since it would be close to law enforcement, in addition to having good lighting. Mr. Haas raised the question on whether or not the Commission would like to relocate the field this SUlmner. Conunissioner Anderson mentioned that the goal was to install the skateboard facility this spnng. Commissioner Blackstad mentioned that if the facility is at the City Hall the City wouldn't need to spend any money on a parking lot. COlmnissioner Anderson stated that he hadn't thought ofthat site. He mentioned that the kids would like to have concrete over blach.'1op, however it costs quite a bit more, therefore the kids are planning to talk with the Lions Club to possibly trade hours for dollars. / ' '-.j COlmrussioner Blackstad suggested putting in the facility this summer, however doing it on a small scale and then expanding it next year. ,--, ! C) Regular Andover Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes - February I, 2001 Page II n -' Commissioner Grabowski suggested doing it this year but waiting until the end of July, which would allow the City the use of the field. Madam Chair Holthus suggested Mr. Haas fmd out exactly how much space is available and let Commissioner Anderson know prior to the next task force meeting. Commissioner Anderson mentioned that the facility will get a lot of use, therefore its important the City completes it as soon as possible. COlmnissioner O'Toole stated that we told the kids we were cOlmnitted to doing the facility, therefore its important we follow through with what we said. COlmnissioner O'Toole stated that he won't be able to attend any more meetings of the task force for the next few weeks. He suggested someone else take his place. Commissioner Blackstad volunteered. Madam Chair Holthus updated the COlmnission regarding the last meeting as to the joint powers agreement and what was discussed, in addition to how electrical power would be brought out onto the fields. '- ' COlmnissioner Grabowski stated that the biggest concem was the water and whether or not the well is sufficient enough. He mentioned that the overall design could change. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT COlmnissioner Blackstad mentioned that it's nice to be back on the COlmnission again. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Lindahl, seconded by Blackstad, to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously. The meeting adjoumed at 9:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Sara Beck, Recording Secretary TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. r-', , ", ~ .J